 Shelley Klaas (MA ‘84) was one of the first school counselors in Iowa to be national board certified through the National Board of Performance in Teaching. Currently, she works as a K-5 counselor at Neil Armstrong Elementary School in Bettendorf, Iowa.
“Shelley is one of the most knowledgeable and capable counselors I have ever met,” said Kevin Hatfield (MA ‘00), principal at Armstrong. “Her work has improved the lives of so many children and families. We have all benefitted from her outstanding efforts and dedication.”
Klaas said becoming board certified was one of the most challenging as well as most rewarding experiences in her educational career and gives credit to her advisor, Professor Nicholas Colangelo.
“Nick’s incredible knowledge, quiet leadership, and constant support really made the difference for me being fully prepared,” Klaas said. “I would never have accomplished all that I have without his thoughtful guidance.”
First-grade teacher Lisa Davis (BA ‘00) said Klaas is a dedicated teacher, counselor and friend.
“Shelley goes above and beyond the call of duty with students, their parents, and school staff—making sure all of our needs are met,” Davis said. “Her innovative ideas work, whether students are struggling emotionally, academically, or behaviorally.”
Klaas believes her success is because she loves what she does.
“I go to work every day excited about working with children and can’t imagine my world without so many children in it,” she said. “I enjoy the variety of things I do, and most of all, I love the hugs I get from the children.”
Klaas offered advice for counselors new to the field. “Bring all your passion for children and for counseling to work every day—and then do your very best to leave those difficult situations behind when you go home at night,” she said. “Remember, you are not a wizard!”
Klaas’ other awards include being named: one of The University of Iowa’s Distinguished Teachers; Scott County’s Golden Apple Teacher of the Year; to the Bettendorf Community School District Wall of Honor; a member of the State of Iowa Counseling Leadership Summit; and an Outstanding Volunteer from Girl Scouts of the Mississippi Valley.
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